10 Best Beach Bars in Cornwall
Picture yourself basking in the golden sunlight, toes buried in the soft sand, while sipping on a refreshing cocktail or enjoying a locally crafted beer. Cornish beach bars provide the perfect setting to soak in the breathtaking views of crystal clear waters, rugged cliffs, and dramatic sunsets.
Whether you’re seeking an energetic spot to celebrate the surf culture, a tranquil hideaway to unwind with loved ones, or a place to savour real food while embracing the soothing sound of crashing waves, Cornwall’s beach bars have something to offer everyone.
Embrace the chilled vibes of the Cornwall coastal spirit, indulge in delicious culinary delights, and create cherished memories as you melt into the beauty of Cornish beach bars. So, sit back, relax, and let the natural splendour and coastal magic of Cornwall’s beach bars captivate your senses and leave you with unforgettable experiences that will stay with you long after the tide has rolled out.
Porthmeor Beach Cafe – St Ives
This is one of our firm favourites in St Ives given we live here and so have the pleasure of it all year round! Porthmeor Beach offers up the most spectacular sunsets; they are literally breathtaking. Porthmeor Beach is on the west side of St Ives and stretches for a mile when the tide is out. It’s a fabulous spot for surfing but also for families pitching up for the day and taking in the glorious views and soaking up the sun on the soft sand.
The beach’s natural beauty is made even more special by the iconic Tate St Ives gallery perched just above it, adding an artistic touch to the landscape. Porthmeor Beach is not only a haven for sun-seekers and surf enthusiasts but also an inspiration for artists and creatives, drawing them to its mesmerizing shores.
At the heart of this beach heaven lies Porthmeor Beach Cafe, an oasis of taste and tranquility. It’s right above the beach so you can almost touch it and, when the tide is high, the sea lazily rolls in just 30 metres away. The beach cafe has a sheltered, decked area right on the beach serving hot food as well as pastries and ice-cream and Cornish beer and cider. Porthmeor Beach Cafe above the beach serves tapas, brunch, healthy salads and amazing seafood. The cocktails and chilled wines are simply delicious!
As you savour your meal, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of St Ives Bay and the ever-changing Atlantic horizon. The outdoor terrace, complete with comfortable seating and beachfront ambiance, provides the perfect setting to bask in the natural beauty that surrounds you. The Porthmeor Beach Cafe isn’t just a place to satisfy your hunger (and thirst!); it’s an experience that embodies the spirit of Cornwall’s coastal lifestyle.
Funky tunes, delicious food, exceptional service, incredible views (shelter if you need it in a hurry) and sand within touching distance makes this a beach cafe we want in our top ten of beach bars in Cornwall!
Photo Credit: Matt Jessop
The Watering Hole – Perranporth Beach
Photo Credit: Adam Gibbard
One of the key reasons why The Watering Hole is in our top 10 best beach bars in Cornwall, is its enviable location! Imagine sipping your favourite drink while your feet are sunken in the sand and almost touching the sea with its rhythmic waves providing the soundtrack along with their chilled out vibes. It has a prime beachfront spot, so this bar allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the ocean and the stunning expansive views of Perranporth Beach.
The Watering Hole is not just about the view; it also boasts an impressive menu that caters to diverse tastes and dietary needs. From refreshing cocktails and local craft beers to scrumptious food offerings, the bar has something to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re indulging in a delicious beachside lunch or enjoying a leisurely drink as the sun sets, holidays in Cornwall at The Watering Hole can’t be beaten.
In addition to its food and drinks, The Watering Hole is renowned for its lively events and live music performances. This beach bar is a hub of entertainment, offering an exciting lineup of bands and artists that add to the beachie ambiance and create a memorable experience for guests of all ages. Infamous Radio X DJ Chris Moyles is going to attract crowds this September as well as Ministry of Sound DJ’s the night after so what better way to soak up the Indian summer sun in September than sipping a cocktail on a beach listening to classic dance tunes.
Lusty Glaze Beach Bar – Newquay
Photo Credit: Matt Jessop
Located on a secluded cove in Newquay, Lusty Glaze promises a serene and picturesque setting that perfectly complements a desire to sit, relax and soak up the coastal views and surfing activities. With its breathtaking views and golden sands, this beach restaurant and bar provides the ultimate escape for those coming to Cornwall for a holiday or something more special like a wedding!
Lusty Glaze Beach Bar takes a lot of pride in delivering a memorable dining experience. They love to offer a delectable range of dishes prepared with beautiful Cornish ingredients from local growers. They reflect this in their authentic Cornish coastal dishes from sumptuous seafood platters to mouthwatering vegetarian delights, each dish at Lusty Glaze is crafted with care and served with a side of oceanic splendour.
For those seeking leisurely moments during their holiday to Cornwall, Lusty Glaze offers a host of beach activities to complement their stay. Whether you’re lounging on the sun-kissed shores, participating in beach games, or trying your hand at various water sports, the beach bar’s recreational offerings cater to the those experienced or beginners and younger children.
Lusty Glaze has made it onto our top 10 beach bars in Cornwall, as it serves up great food, delicious drinks and a great line up of lively and vibrant entertainment as well as chilled out tunes.
Blue Bar – Porthtowan Beach
Photo Credit: Matt Jessop
Blue Bar in Porthtowan is on our list of Cornwall’s best beach bars for several reasons. Its stunning beachfront location, nestled between two headlands, offers breathtaking views, creating a relaxing atmosphere where you can unwind while enjoying the natural beauty. The bar’s unique blend of laid-back beach vibes and quality service appeals to those just wanting a drink and snack in a beach-day afterglow. The Blue Bar serves locally sourced, freshly prepared food, barista coffees and a wide range of drinks, it is the perfect place to get together with family and friends or, for us locals, take a break from the office with a business lunch by the sea. Their menu features suits vegetarians and vegans as well as someone who loves a great big burger with dirty fries! Its friendly staff and vibrant events, such as live music nights, contribute to a lively and enjoyable ambiance that captures the essence of Cornwall’s coastal lifestyle. Check out their webcam too for some beautiful, real-time beach views!
Porthminster Beach Cafe – St Ives
Photo Credit: Porthminster Beach CafePorthminster Beach Cafe sits on the pristine shores of St. Ives Bay, making it an irresistible destination for people who book a holiday cottage in St Ives and want an unforgettable beach holiday experience. This award-winning cafe boasts a magical fusion of panoramic sea views and culinary excellence.
Imagine sipping your morning coffee while the sun rises over the glistening waters, or indulging in a seafood feast as the waves gently caress the shore just a stone’s throw away. The cafe’s commitment to sourcing the finest local ingredients ensures that every dish is a masterpiece that reflects Cornwall’s rich culinary heritage.
From the moment you step onto the golden sands of Porthminster Beach, you’ll be transported into a world of tranquility and indulgence. Whether you’re relishing a sumptuous meal on the terrace, feeling the sand between your toes as you enjoy a beach picnic, or simply basking in the warm coastal breeze, Porthminster Beach Cafe promises an experience that captures the very essence of seaside charm.
With its renowned reputation for exceptional service, breathtaking vistas, and exquisite cuisine, Porthminster Beach Cafe stands as a quintessential must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the beauty and full-flavour of one of Cornwall’s coastal treasures.
Sennen Beach Bar – Sennen
Photo Credit: Visit Cornwall
Photo Credit: Surf Beach Bar, Sennen
Sennen Beach Bar offers the sort of beachside experience that you dream of when booking a holiday to Cornwall. You will be immersed in the natural beauty of the West Cornwall rugged coastline as well as gazing across miles of golden sand and the stunning blue sea with great waves. Nestled right on the edge of Sennen Cove’s golden sands, this bar allows you to relish the refreshing sea breeze and the soothing sound of waves as you unwind with your favorite drink. The bar is only open during the warmer months, and you can understand why when you visit. It’s best experienced soaking up the warm sun rays after an exhilarating day of watersports and beach fun.
What truly sets Sennen Beach Bar apart is its proximity to the sea and the world of water sports it opens up. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a curious beginner, the bar’s location offers direct access to the inviting waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Picture yourself catching the perfect wave and then stepping off the beach to enjoy a well-deserved drink, all without missing a beat.
The bar becomes a hub of excitement as water sports enthusiasts gather to share tales of their adventures while enjoying the laid-back atmosphere. Even if you’re not hitting the waves yourself, you can witness the energy of surfers and beachgoers from the comfort of the bar’s open-air seating, creating a dynamic and vibrant ambiance.
Sennen Beach Bar isn’t just a place to enjoy a drink; it’s a gateway to a world of oceanic exploration and adventure. Whether you’re mingling with fellow beach lovers, watching surfers conquer the waves, or savoring the panoramic coastal views, every moment spent at Sennen Beach Bar is a celebration of West Cornwall’s thrilling allure of the sea. Do you fancy checking out the surf conditions or the tide before visiting? Hop onto Sennen Surf Beach Bar’s webcam now.
Rockpool – Gwithian Beach
Photo Credit: Evie Johnstone. @eviejohnstone_stylistRockpool beach bar with kitchen by LULA at Gwithian offers that coastal experience you want when having booked a self-catering holiday in Cornwall. It caters to both water sports enthusiasts, families, hip young things and dog enthusiasts! Situated amidst the stunning Gwithian Beach, this bar provides the perfect backdrop for an action-packed day of watersports or relaxation watching the world go by with a coffee and slab of cake.
For water sports enthusiasts, Rockpool beach bar serves as a hub for excitement. The bar’s location allows easy access to the exhilarating waves of Gwithian’s renowned surf. Whether you’re an experienced surfer riding the waves or a beginner learning the ropes, the bar’s proximity to the water makes it an ideal starting point for your aquatic escapades followed by a warming drink or a cool beverage with fresh seafood snacks.
Rockpool beach bar’s dog-friendly environment makes it a haven for pet owners. Gwithian Beach is a paradise for four-legged friends, offering expansive sands where dogs can run freely and play to their heart’s content as well as within the towans and nature reserve right next to the bar. After a spirited romp on the beach, you and your furry companion can relax at the bar’s welcoming outdoor seating or indoors with it’s floor to ceiling windows, savoring a meal or a refreshing drink while soaking in the breathtaking sea views. The bar has a large car park at the front which is pay and display so makes for a stress-free visit everytime.
Rockpool beach bar hosts live music events over the summer from chilled out tunes to dancing in the dunes. It caters for everyone and is the very reason it is on our top ten list of beach bars in Cornwall.
The Beach Hut – Watergate Bay
Photo Credit: Adam Gibbard
The Beach Hut in Watergate Bay is what holiday makers to Cornwall dream of! Here’s why it stands out as a great beach bar to us at Orange Roofs:
1. Breathtaking Location: The Beach Hut is right on Watergate Bay beach. Its expansive windows and outdoor seating area give uninterrupted views of the gorgeous sea (whatever the season!), creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere that invites that ”aahhh, and reeelax” moment!
2. Culinary Delights: The Beach Hut is well-known for its innovative and locally sourced menu. Take their Lobster Friday treat bookable from midday onwards, or Crab Linguine or Moules Mariniere, their menu is simply beach food made gorgeous. There are options for vegetarians, vegans and those needing gluten-free options too.
3. Surf and Sunset Vibes: Watergate Bay is a surfer’s paradise, and The Beach Hut perfectly captures the laid-back surf culture of the area. Surrounded by wetsuit-clad beachgoers and surfboards, the bar exudes a unique combination of energy and relaxation that’s synonymous with having holidays to Cornwall.
4. All-Day Haven: Whether you’re starting your day with a beachfront breakfast, enjoying a leisurely lunch, or reveling in a magical sunset dinner, The Beach Hut is a versatile haven that caters to various dining preferences and occasions.
5. Events and Gatherings: The Beach Hut hosts a variety of events, including beach sports, live music, and themed nights. This creates a dynamic and social ambiance, making it an excellent spot for mingling with other like-minded, beach lovers.
6. Family-Friendly: The bar welcomes families with open arms. Children can play in the sand just steps away, while parents enjoy a well-deserved moment of relaxation.
7. Sunset Spectacles: As the day draws to a close, The Beach Hut becomes a front-row seat to some of the most breathtaking sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean. The combination of vibrant hues and the soothing sound of waves creates an unforgettable experience. Imagine this with a cold glass of your favourite beverage in hand…
Poldhu Beach Cafe – Poldhu Cove, Near Mullion
Photo Credit: Matt Jessop
As you can see from the photo above, Poldhu Beach is a popular beach destination for those that have a holiday in Cornwall. There is pay and display parking very close to the beach and (mainly locals) park up on the lane leading to the beach too. Poldhu Beach Cafe offers a truly immersive coastal experience that revolves around its prime beachside location, the beauty of its surroundings, and the unique allure of its special pizza nights between June to September 5 pm to 7 pm (book ahead online). Having enjoyed a couple of their pizza nights on super sunny and warm evenings during the summer, we can vouch for its laid-back charm and vibe. We even had the pleasure of hearing folk singer/ songwriter Seth Lakeman jam with a local resident who had brought his guitar to the beach too!
Poldhu Beach Cafe is nestled just steps away from the inviting sands of Poldhu Beach so you can enjoy the Cornish food delights while sinking your toes in the soft sand. When the tide is out, the sea is quite far away and there is a huge expanse of sand for everyone to enjoy. The cafe is situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty, surrounded by breathtaking coastal landscapes. With panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, rugged cliffs, and stunning sunsets, Poldhu Beach Cafe provides an idyllic setting that encapsulates the raw beauty of Cornwall’s coastline.
Another reason why we love it at Poldhu Beach Cafe is because it serves as a hub for both locals and visitors, fostering a warm and friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re indulging in a casual lunch, soaking up the sun on the outdoor terrace, or enjoying one of their renowned pizza nights, Poldhu Beach Cafe invites you to become a part of its vibrant community.
In essence, Poldhu Beach Cafe offers an experience for both holiday-makers in Cornwall and local residents that celebrates the coastal lifestyle in Cornwall. Its proximity to the beach, stunning surroundings, and signature pizza nights come together to create an unforgettable destination that captures the heart and soul of this enchanting coastal region.
The Hidden Hut – Porthcurnik beach, Portscatho
That’s me in the photo holding onto a blue-merle border collie and a small rescue dog. I’m eating a super delicious mango sorbet and vegan vanilla ice-cream in a waffle cone. As you can see, this was following a sit down meal outside at the Hidden Hut that was just heavenly! What was even more heavenly? The views! I can’t take my eyes of it.
The Hidden Hut in Cornwall is a culinary gem that stands as a testament to the region’s rich food culture, stunning landscapes, and the power of bringing people together in a truly unique setting. True to its name, The Hidden Hut is tucked away in a secluded spot along the south-west coastal path, overlooking the gorgeous waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Its unassuming location adds an air of exclusivity, making the walk to this hidden culinary treasure all the more enjoyable and exciting.
The essence of The Hidden Hut lies in its communal feasting events held on the beach. With rustic benches, long tables, and the backdrop of sand and sea, these events bring people from all walks of life together to share a meal in a truly special environment. It’s an opportunity to connect with both food and fellow diners in an intimate and authentic way. You need to be quick and book ahead when the feast dates are released so keep a keen eye on their website!
The menu at The Hidden Hut celebrates Cornwall’s bounty by focusing on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Each dish is crafted to highlight the flavours of the region and the changing seasons. This commitment to quality and sustainability resonates with those who appreciate the importance of supporting local producers.
The reason why we have added The Hidden Hut to our top ten beach bar in Cornwall is down to its charm and simplicity. It invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and relish the simple pleasures of life.